Alternative to the recent energy rate hikes

Presented by Stellar Solar

The closing of the nuclear reactors in San Onofre resulted in a large rate increase implemented on Sept. 1. This increase combined with the higher usage at this time of year is tough on many San Diegans.

With the technological improvements, independence from utilities and lower prices now available in the use of solar energy systems, more consumers are heading in this alternative direction.

“We’ve seen some really good technology develop in this area over the last five years,” said Kent Harle, CEO of Stellar Solar. “Additionally, prices have really come down and financing and leasing options that weren’t available a few years ago including zero money down and low interest loans are common and make this opportunity more available to all homeowners.”

Purchasing a system outright offers a solid investment return as the Solar Energy System will zero out their electric bill, and last as long as the consumer remains in the home, although it will have paid for itself in four to seven years.

Modern photovoltaic (PV) solar power is efficient, absorbing sunshine through solar panels and producing electricity for powering one’s house. When more power is produced than needed, the surplus energy is returned to the utility through the electric meter, spinning it backwards and earning credit for use during the night hours.

Of course, the initial trend toward solar energy years ago was due to the huge environmental benefits, which still apply today. Solar energy is cleaner than fossil fuels as it produces none of the carbon, methane or other emissions, and doesn’t require extracting, refining and transporting of any raw materials. It also does not require dependency on foreign oil.

With the unlimited power of the sun, the ability to power one’s home even in isolated and rural areas is never an issue.

“This is the technology for the future,” said Harle. “Everyone will be using solar energy to live comfortably; to not have a colder house in the winter or a warmer house in summer months.”

Stellar Solar can install PV solar energy systems as small as 1.2 kW and as large as 25.2 kW on all roof surfaces including asphalt shingle, terra cotta tile, shake shingle and hot-mopped; as well as ground mounted if needed.

The trusted professionals at Stellar Solar can install a system in one to four days. They clean up after themselves and try not to inconvenience the homeowners in any manner.

Voted the area’s best solar company for the second time in the 2013 U-T San Diego readers’ poll, and in business since 1998, Stellar Solar has installed more than 40,000 solar panels throughout San Diego County.

Stellar Solar will bring lunch in to any business and give an informal presentation through their Lunch & Learns program available to any business.